The Role of Decomposers in the Ecosystem

What are Decomposers? Decomposers: (defined) Organisms that use dead plant and animal material as food.

Role in the environment Decomposers break down material, getting the energy they need to live and releasing elements back into the environment to be reused by other organisms.

Simple Terms Decomposers eat dead things and turn them back into dirt, or soil.

This cattle was killed by a pack of wolves. Once this cattle dies, decomposers start to go to work. They eat away at the flesh and bones of the animal until there is nothing much left.

Decomposers are…. Simple plants such as bacteria and fungi. Most are microscopic organisms Example: mushrooms

Decomposers are also… Worms and other bugs found in or around the soil

Decomposers in a pond Located everywhere but more abundant at the bottom where dead plants and animals settle. Fun Fact! This is why the muck (mud) at the bottom of a pond smells bad

Decomposers in a forest They live in the top part of the soil, being above ground Examples include mushrooms and other fungi

Making Connections Decomposers are like the janitors of nature.